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How to enhance your relationship, keeping it special and alive

So you’ve been with your partner for a while, the relationship is still good but maybe not as great as it used to be, maybe its no longer as new and exciting as it was originally or maybe you just want to make your current relationship deeper and more meaningful. No matter the reason, and no matter the cause, most relationships go through down times; periods when the intimacy or romance in your connection seems to have cooled off, or times when you want it to be better than it already is. It is at these times that you need to put some more effort into the relationship, revitalising it and enhancing it, both returning it to the exciting and happy state it once was, and making it even more special.

Whether you have been married for some time or involved in a new relationship that you want to develop further, all relationships require some thought and effort to maintain and enhance them. It doesn’t matter whether it is ‘just’ a friendship, or something more intimate, they all require work to keep them alive and relevant.

There are, of course, a number of ways to do this, but all of them include a few simple requirements.

The main thing is always to be aware of your partner. What are their interests, what are their likes and dislikes, what is it that makes them feel special? Notice what they are doing, and be involved in it. This can be as simple as noticing a change in their dress style (clothing, hair style etc) and commenting favourably on it. A compliment and being noticed will make anyone feel special, whereas being ignored or taken for granted will have totally the opposite effect.

Anything that makes that special person feel appreciated and important can only help your cause, whether this involves a thoughtful gift, time spent together without distractions, or sharing the experience of something that they enjoy doing such as attending a play, a sports event, dining out or walking along a beach. Even if it may not be something that you are used to, try something new that interests your partner and enjoy it together.

In an intimate moment, ensure that you are concentrating on your partner, rather than just your own pleasure. Whether kissing, having sex, or just talking closely, ensure that you are really seeing what it is that your partner enjoys, and actually listen to what they are telling you. Be aware of their body language as well, as this will often tell you a lot that their words don’t necessarily convey fully.

By the same token, make sure that you are also open about your own feelings, your likes and dislikes, and what you think about things. The key to all relationships is good communication, and this needs to be open and two-way. In the same way that you need to be aware of your partner, they also need to be able to understand you, to know your likes, dislikes and interests. Ensure that you spend time talking and honestly sharing your thoughts and feelings.

Spending time together and paying real attention to each other will help to revitalise your relationship, providing enhancement that will take it from its current level to something deeper, more meaningful and more special.